CN111479636B - Apparatus, system and method for cleaning a cart - Google Patents

Abstract

In one aspect, embodiments of a device (10) for cleaning a cart (12) with a fluid are disclosed. The device (10) comprises: a housing part (16); a filter (18) mounted to the housing (16) in an assembled state; -support means (19) for holding the trolley (12) in an inclined orientation relative to said housing (16) such that the contents of the hopper of the trolley can move at least partially by gravity into said housing (16). Various embodiments of devices, systems, kits, and related methods of use are also disclosed.

Description

Device, system and method for cleaning carts

related application

This application claims priority to Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2017903698 filed 12 September 2017, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

technical field

The present invention relates to an apparatus, system and method for cleaning implements and equipment such as carts.

Background technique

Tools and equipment such as wheelbarrows are used on construction sites for a variety of reasons. One use of the cart is to transport cement through the cart's tray. During use, cement will cake on the inside of the body and must be removed from the body.

To clean the bucket, the trolley can be rested on the ground at an angle by one user or held by another auxiliary user. Then flush the dirty water and cement onto the ground or into the drain. A similar process may occur for tools and equipment that need to be cleaned, for example, a trowel with lumps of cement on it or a paint brush with excess paint on it.

Cleaning such tools and equipment presents problems with handling waste including solids and sewage. Problems specific to cleaning the cart body involve carts that are difficult to hold or require two people to operate. Another concern concerns the disposal of sewage and waste cement that may contaminate the surrounding environment.

The present invention seeks to overcome one or more of the above problems or at least provide a useful alternative.

Contents of the invention

According to a first main aspect there is provided a device for cleaning a trolley by fluid, said device comprising a bucket comprising a rear wall opposite the front wall, opposing side walls, a floor and a skirt, and a filter, The bucket has a cutout in its front wall; the cutout has opposing side portions, spaced from the side walls, extending from the skirt of the bucket to a middle portion relatively lower than the skirt , and spaced from the floor so that without lifting the cart wheels, the front of the cart body can move over the cutout, which is shaped to receive at least the front of the cart body, thereby providing Support means; said filter is mounted in said barrel, said filter comprising a cutout in its front wall corresponding to the cutout of the barrel, a rear wall opposite the front wall, opposite side walls, a floor and a skirt , the skirt is adapted to engage with the skirt of the bucket, wherein the support means is adapted to at least temporarily hold the trolley in an orientation inclined relative to the bucket so that the contents of the bucket of the trolley can be at least partially passed by gravity Move into said bucket.

In one aspect, the receptacle is provided by the tub having a cutout in its front wall shaped to receive at least the front of the bucket in an inclined orientation.

In another aspect, the tub includes a rear wall opposite the front wall, opposing side walls, a floor and a skirt.

In another aspect, the support means includes at least one bucket support arranged to abut the front of the bucket in an inclined orientation.

In another aspect, the support arrangement includes at least two bucket supports for supporting opposite sides of the front of the bucket in an inclined orientation.

In another aspect, the support means includes two bucket supports, each bucket support arranged to be movably connected to the bucket so as to be capable of moving between a first position and a second position. movement, in the first position the two bucket supports are raised relative to the skirt, in the second position the two bucket supports are movable near the skirt and the filter is mounted on Between the two body supports and the skirt.

In another aspect, the two body supports are located near opposite sides of the cutout.

In another aspect, each of the two bucket supports includes a body and a protrusion extending from the body for engaging a front portion of the bucket.

In another aspect, the body is pivotally connected to the tub adjacent opposite sides of the cutout.

In another aspect, the protrusions of each of the two body supports face toward each other in a direction substantially from side to side of the cutout.

In another aspect, each of the two bucket supports includes a plurality of protrusions for engagement with buckets of different sizes.

In another aspect, the support device further includes a tether for securing the cart in an inclined orientation.

In another aspect, the tether is an elastic band for releasable attachment to opposite sides of the cutout of the bucket.

In another aspect, the cutout is shaped to hold the front of the body in an inclined orientation, thereby providing a support means.

In another aspect, the cutout is shaped to engage the underside of the front portion of the bucket in an inclined orientation, thereby providing underside support of the support means.

In another aspect, the cutout includes opposing side portions extending from the skirt to a central portion relatively lower than the skirt.

In another aspect, the intermediate portion is configured such that the bucket can be moved thereon without raising the wheels of the trolley relative to the tub.

In another aspect, the intermediate portion is elevated relative to the floor, and at least a portion of the front wall extends between the intermediate portion and the floor.

In another aspect, the middle portion includes a middle lip extending along a top thereof.

In another aspect, the middle lip is substantially horizontal and extends relatively outwardly from the front side of the bucket.

In another aspect, the opposing side portions are shaped to hold a body of the cart in an inclined orientation.

In another aspect, the opposing side portions are shaped such that the cutout narrows towards the middle portion.

In another aspect, the opposing side portions are angled inwardly towards the middle portion.

In another aspect, the side portion includes a side lip against which the body of the cart rests in an oblique orientation.

In another aspect, the filter is shaped to substantially conform to the inner surface of the tub.

In another aspect, the filter includes a filter body shaped to correspond to the interior shape of the tub.

In another aspect, the filter includes a cutout on its front wall corresponding to the cutout of the bucket.

In another aspect, the filter includes a rear wall opposite the front wall, opposing side walls, a floor, and a skirt substantially at the top of the rear wall, at the top of the opposing side walls and at least partially Extends over the top of the front wall.

In another aspect, the skirt of the filter is arranged to sit on top of the tub skirt in the assembled state.

In another aspect, the filter includes an intermediate flap for extending over the top of the cutout in the assembled state.

In another aspect, the filter includes a handle.

In another aspect, the skirt of the filter includes a plurality of handles.

In another aspect, the skirt includes handles at portions of the opposing side walls, the rear wall, and the middle panel.

In another aspect, the filter includes a filter material for filtering solid matter from a fluid.

In another aspect, the filter material is pre-shaped to fit the tub.

In another aspect, the filter material includes one or more of paper, cellulose, hemp, banana fiber, and recycled textiles.

In another aspect, the barrel includes an outlet, and the inner surface of the barrel is shaped to facilitate fluid flow through the filter to the outlet.

In another aspect, at least a portion of the interior surface of the barrel adjacent the filter is non-smooth to facilitate fluid flow through the filter.

In another aspect, at least a portion of the interior surface of the barrel adjacent the filter includes one or more of corrugations, protrusions, ridges, holes, and grooves for facilitating passage of fluid through the filter.

In another aspect, the bucket includes an outlet proximate the floor.

In another aspect, the outlet is configured to be fitted with a hose.

In another aspect, the outlet is configured to be fitted with a processing device.

In another aspect, a fluid treatment device is used to alter the pH of a fluid passing therethrough.

In another aspect, the apparatus also includes a removable tray for placement on top of the bucket and filter.

In another aspect, the apparatus further includes a reservoir for collecting filtered fluid from the barrel.

In another aspect, the reservoir includes a body in which a bucket and a cart can be placed.

In another aspect, the body has a platform on which buckets and carts can be placed and a ramp leading to the platform.

In another aspect, the floor of the tub is angled such that the tub can be moved between an initial position in which the cart is supported in an inclined orientation and an angled position in which the cart is supported. state, the bucket is self-supporting in an inclined drain state.

According to another main aspect, there is provided a filter for use in a device as described above and defined herein.

According to another main aspect, there is provided a fluid handling device for use with the device described above and defined herein.

According to another main aspect, there is provided a platform comprising a liquid reservoir for use in a device as described above and defined herein.

According to another main aspect, there is provided a bucket for use in the device described above and defined herein.

According to another main aspect, there is provided a filter for a bucket for filtering solid matter from a fluid washing a trolley, said filter comprising cutouts on its front wall corresponding to the cutouts of said bucket, A rear wall opposite the front wall, opposing side walls, a floor, and a skirt extending substantially at the top of the rear wall, at the top of the opposing side walls and at least partially at the top of the front wall and the cutout.

In one aspect, the filter is pre-shaped to fit the bucket.

In another aspect, the skirt includes one or more handles.

In another aspect, the skirt includes a handle adjacent each of the cutout, rear wall, and opposing side walls.

In another aspect, the filter includes a filter material for filtering solid matter from a fluid.

In another aspect, the filter material is flexible.

In another aspect, the filter material includes one or more of paper, cellulose, hemp, banana fiber, and recycled textiles.

According to another main aspect, there is provided an apparatus for cleaning implements or equipment using a fluid, the apparatus comprising: a bucket; a filter mounted to the bucket in an assembled state; support means for Hold the cleaning tool or equipment relative to the bucket so that fluid and any discharged solids can collect in the bucket's strainer.

In one aspect, the device includes a barrel having a receptacle, the filter being shaped to substantially fit snugly over an inner surface of the barrel.

In another aspect, the barrel includes an outlet, and the inner surface of the barrel is shaped to facilitate fluid flow through the filter to the outlet.

In another aspect, at least a portion of the interior surface of the barrel adjacent the filter is rough or uneven to facilitate fluid flow through the filter.

In another aspect, at least a portion of the interior surface of the barrel adjacent the filter includes one or more of corrugations, protrusions, ridges, holes, and grooves for facilitating passage of fluid through the filter.

In another aspect, the bucket includes an outlet proximate the floor.

According to another main aspect, there is provided a system for cleaning a trolley by fluid, said system comprising a tub having a receptacle, a preformed filter mounted to said receptacle in an assembled state, and a support means, the The support means are used to maintain the trolley in an inclined orientation relative to the receptacle so that the contents of the trolley body can be moved into the receptacle at least partly by gravity.

According to another general aspect, there is provided a method of cleaning a trolley with fluid, the method comprising one or more of the following steps: placing a bucket on the ground; installing a filter to the bucket receptacle; moving the trolley toward the bucket with at least the front of the trolley being received by the cutout of the bucket and above the receptacle; raising the trolley to an orientation inclined relative to the receptacle so that the contents of the trolley bucket can be at least partially moving by gravity into said receptacle; maintaining the trolley in an inclined orientation by support means; applying cleaning fluid to the bucket of the trolley; trapping solid matter in the filter; and disposing of the filter and captured solid matter.

According to another main aspect, there is provided a support for a cleaning trolley for supporting the trolley in such a way that the trolley body is in an inclined orientation relative to the support surface, such that substances or fluids within the body can be at least partially Movement by gravity from the body to the support surface. .

According to another main aspect, there is provided a system for cleaning trolleys, the system comprising: a housing; a stand for supporting a trolley in an inclined orientation relative to the housing so that within a bucket of the trolley A substance or fluid can move towards the container at least in part by gravity; a filter located between the bucket and the container.

According to another general aspect, there is provided a method of cleaning a trolley, the method comprising: supporting the trolley in an inclined orientation, wherein the bucket of the trolley is located at least partially above the receptacle; and positioning the filter substantially such that incoming fluid The substance mixture enters the container from the bucket through the filter; a cleaning fluid is applied to the bucket of the trolley such that the fluid substance mixture in the bucket can move towards the container at least in part by gravity, and the fluid substance mixture carries at least Part of the solid matter is captured by the filter.

Description of drawings

The invention is described by way of non-limiting examples only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which;

Figure 1 is a front perspective view showing a first embodiment of a device for cleaning trolleys;

Figure 2 is a side view showing a first embodiment of the device;

Figure 3 is an exploded view of parts showing a first embodiment of the device;

Figure 4 is a front view showing a first embodiment of the device;

Figure 5 is a top view showing a first embodiment of the device;

Figure 6 is a side view, with hidden details, in use, showing the first embodiment of the device and the trolley in an inclined orientation;

Figure 7 is a rear perspective view showing the first embodiment of the device and the cart in an inclined orientation with the bucket support of the support device engaged with the cart in a second position;

Figure 8 is a rear perspective view showing the first embodiment of the device with the bucket support of the support device in a first position prior to engagement with the trolley;

Figure 9 is a side sectional view showing a first embodiment of the device;

Figure 10 is a side view showing the first embodiment of the device on a platform with a reservoir and the cart on the platform in an inclined orientation;

Figure 11 is a front perspective view showing the first embodiment of the device on the platform and the trolley in an inclined orientation on the platform;

Figure 12 is a front perspective view showing a second embodiment of a device for cleaning a trolley;

Figure 13 is an exploded view of parts showing a second embodiment of the device;

Figure 14 is a top view showing a second embodiment of the device;

Figure 15 is a side view showing a second embodiment of the device;

Figure 16 is a rear perspective view showing a third embodiment of the device;

Figure 17 is a side sectional view showing a third embodiment of the device;

Figure 18 is an exploded component view showing a third embodiment of the device;

Figure 19 is a front underside view of a third embodiment of the device;

Figure 20 is a top view showing a third embodiment of the device.

Figure 21 is a front perspective view showing the stand in the deployed state of the fourth embodiment of the device for cleaning carts;

Figure 22 is a rear perspective view showing the stand for cleaning the trolley in the deployed state;

Figure 23 is a front view showing the stand for cleaning the trolley in an unfolded state;

Figure 24 is a rear view showing the stand for cleaning the trolley in an unfolded state;

Figure 25 is a side view showing the stand for cleaning the trolley in an unfolded state;

Figure 26 is a perspective view showing the stand folded towards a collapsed state;

Figure 27 is a side view showing the cart in a tilted and raised position on a stand; and

Figure 28 is a perspective view showing a system for cleaning a cart including a stand and a container with a filter.

Detailed ways

first embodiment

Referring to Figures 1 to 11, a first embodiment of an apparatus 10 for cleaning implements and equipment, such as the cart 12 shown in Figure 6, is disclosed. These tools and equipment can be cleaned by using a cleaning fluid such as water to remove substances such as solid matter, mud and debris.

The device 10 comprises a bucket 14 having a receptacle 16, a filter 18 shaped to be mounted to the receptacle 16 in an assembled state, and support means 19 for at least temporarily holding the trolley 12 in relation to the receptacle. 16 inclined directions.

In an inclined orientation, the contents of the body 20 of the trolley 12 can be moved into the receptacle 16 at least partially by gravity. For example, a washing fluid such as water may be applied to the bucket 20 to flush matter into the receptacle 16 where the solid matter is at least partially captured by the filter 18 and the water passes through the filter 18 .

Bucket 14 includes a front wall 22 having a cutout 24, a rear wall 26 opposite the front wall 22, an opposing side wall 28, a floor 30 and a skirt 32 substantially on top of the rear wall 26, an opposing side wall 28 and extends at least partially over the top of front wall 22 . The width of the skirt 32 may be equal to or greater than the corresponding wall 22 , 26 , 28 .

The walls 22 , 26 , 28 of the bucket 14 define an opening 34 in the receptacle 16 and taper towards the floor 30 such that the floor area of the floor 30 is smaller than the opening 34 .

The cutout 24 is shaped to receive at least the front portion 36 of the bucket 20 in an oblique orientation and may hold and support the bucket 20 upon cooperation between the cutout 24 and the bucket 20 . In some embodiments, cutout 24 has support means 19 to support and hold cart 12 in an inclined orientation. However, in other embodiments, the cutout 24 may only provide access to the receptacle, and may not directly engage the bucket 20 . In this embodiment, the cutouts 24 form part of the support means 19 in combination with the body support 48 as described in further detail below.

The cutout 24 includes opposing side portions 38 that extend from the skirt 32 to a central portion 40 that is relatively lower than the skirt 32 and relatively higher than the floor 30 . The height of the middle portion 40 is set so that the bucket 20 can move thereon without lifting the wheels 42 of the cart 12 relative to the receptacle 16 , which allows the wheels 42 to generally remain in contact with the ground without lifting the entire cart 12 .

The middle portion 40 includes a middle lip 44 extending along its top, the middle lip 44 being substantially horizontal and extending oppositely outwardly from the front wall 22 of the bucket 14 . The opposing side portions 38 are shaped to hold the body 20 of the cart 12 in an inclined orientation, and may be curved such that the cutout 24 narrows toward the middle portion 40 . The side portions 38 include respective side lips 46 against which the body 20 of the cart 12 rests in an oblique orientation.

In this embodiment, the support means 19 comprises a pair of bucket supports 48 arranged to abut the front portion 36 of the bucket 20 in an inclined orientation. The pair of bucket supports 48 can take a variety of forms to provide a stop to prevent excessive tipping of the cart 12 and at the same time provide a retainer that can properly support the edges of the bucket 20 .

In more detail, in this embodiment, the bucket support 48 includes a body 50 that is pivotally connected to the front wall 22 adjacent the cutout 24, with a protrusion 52 extending from the body 50 for engaging the bucket. Front portion 36 of 20 engages.

In the present arrangement, the bucket support 48 is movable from a first position, as shown in FIG. 8, wherein the bucket support 48 is rotated away from the skirt 32 to allow the filter 18 to be installed. After the filter 18 is installed, the bucket support 48 may rotate about the skirt 32 on top of the filter 18 . Accordingly, the bucket support 48 also functions to capture and hold the filter 18 in place.

In this embodiment, the protrusions 52 include rear largest protrusions 54 and front smallest protrusions 56, the rear largest protrusions 54 defining a narrow gap therebetween, and the front smallest protrusions 56 defining a relatively larger gap between them. Clearance. This allows the protrusion 52 to abut buckets 20 of different sizes. The notches 58 between the protrusions 52 also help catch the edge of the bucket 20 to keep the cart in an inclined orientation. It should be noted that in some embodiments, the body support 48 may be omitted, particularly in embodiments where the cutout 24 is used to tightly constrain the body 20 . Additionally, in other embodiments, as shown in the second embodiment below, the bucket support 48 may be integrally formed with the tub 14 .

The support device 19 may also include a tether 60 for securing the trolley 12 in an inclined orientation. In this embodiment, the tether 60 is an elastic band 62 having hooks 64 at opposite ends thereof for releasable attachment to the bucket 14 on opposite sides of the cutout 24 . The strap 62 can be looped around the cart 12 to secure the cart 12 for cleaning, particularly more vigorous cleaning and scrubbing.

Now describing the filter 18 in more detail, the filter 18 may be pre-shaped to substantially conform to the inner surface 62 of the receptacle 16 . The filter 18 includes a filter body 64 shaped to correspond to the interior shape of the bucket 14 . The filter body 64 includes a front wall 66 having a cutout 68 , a rear wall 70 , opposing side walls 72 and a floor 74 . Notch 68 corresponds to notch 24 of barrel 14 .

The skirt 76 extends generally over the top of the rear wall 70 , the top of the opposing side wall 72 and at least partially over the top of the front wall 66 . The skirt 76 of the filter 18 is arranged to sit on top of the skirt 32 of the tub 14 in the assembled state. The filter 18 includes an intermediate flap 78 intended to extend over the top of the cutout 24 in the assembled state. In this embodiment, the skirts 76 at the opposing side walls, the rear wall, and the middle panel each include handles 80 . The handle 80 generally extends beyond the bucket 14 to allow the filter 18 to be snapped on and removed easily.

In terms of materials, filter 18 may be made from a variety of materials including, but not limited to, one or more of paper, cellulose, hemp, banana fiber, nylon, polyester, synthetic textiles, and recycled textiles. Filter materials are used to filter solid matter from fluids. For example, the filtered solid matter can be cement and its components such as sand and gravel. Fluid, generally comprising water, passes through the filter 18 and flows towards the floor 30 of the housing 16 .

In this embodiment, the filter material may be filter paper with a single layer of cellulose, its weight is about 180 GSM, and its pore retention size is 5-10 μm. Filter paper can be wet strengthened with epichlorohydrin resin. It may take about 20 minutes for the cleaning fluid to drain through the filter. This filtration process is aided by a phenomenon known as "filter cake", which is the trapped solids/sediment at the lowest point of the filter that acts as a secondary filter.

The barrel 14 includes an outlet 82 through which the receptacle 16 empties, and the interior surface 62 of the receptacle 16 of the barrel 14 serves to facilitate the flow of fluid through the filter 18 to the outlet 82 . The inner surface 62 of the receptacle 16 is generally sloped toward the center and rear of the tub 14 , and the outlet 82 is disposed at the center rear of the tub 14 .

At least a portion of inner surface 62 adjacent to filter 18 serves to facilitate fluid flow through filter 18 , for example by being rough or uneven relative to filter 18 . In more detail, in this embodiment, the inner surface 62 adjacent to the filter 18 includes surface features in the form of ridges 84 and grooves 86 that support the filter 18 while substantially providing spaces or passages through the grooves 86 for fluid flow. Pass through filter 18 and flow to outlet 82 .

It should be noted that although ridges 84 and grooves 86 are provided in this embodiment, the inner surface 62 may be provided with various surface features that serve a similar function, such as but not limited to corrugations, protrusions, ridges, holes, grooves, etc. one or more of . Surface features may also be provided by separate components or inserts, such as a wire mesh basket mounted below the filter 18, all of which are covered by this application.

Now describing in greater detail the outlet 82 configured to be fitted with a hose 88 and/or a fluid handling device 90 . In this embodiment, the fluid treatment device 90 is used to change the pH value of the fluid passing therethrough. Fluid treatment device 90 includes a housing 92 and ion exchange media 93 retained within a stainless steel mesh bag 94 within housing 92 . It should be noted that in some embodiments the fluid handling device 90 may be omitted. Ion exchange medium 93 may be or include a cation exchange resin, such as, but not limited to, a strongly acidic cation exchange resin.

Note that in some embodiments, device 10 may omit filter 18 itself and include fluid handling device 90 , perhaps with a pre- or post-filter between outlet 82 and fluid handling device 90 or hose 88 . Such configurations are also covered in this application.

Apparatus 10 further includes a removable tray 96 for placement on top of bucket 14 and filter 18 . In this embodiment, the removable tray 96 includes a receptacle 97 with drainage holes and a side flap 98 at the top of the skirt 32 . The removable tray 96 can be used for cleaning smaller tools and equipment. It should be noted that in some embodiments, cutout 24 may be omitted and bucket 14 and filter 18 may be used to clean tools and equipment other than carts.

In some embodiments, device 10 may further include a reservoir 99 for collecting filtered fluid from barrel 14 . The reservoir 99 is disposed within the body 85 which has a platform 87 on which the bucket 14 and cart can be placed. Body 85 includes a ramp 89 leading to platform 87 . Reservoir 99 includes an inlet 91 connectable to hose 88 and/or fluid handling device 90 . The reservoir 99 can be used in situations where temporary storage of waste is required.

Bucket 14 and other components may generally be made of, but not limited to, plastic materials such as polyethylene, nylon, and polypropylene. The components of the device may be considered to form part of a system or kit that functions together. In this way, components of the device such as the barrel, filter, platform reservoir and fluid handling device may be provided separately.

In use, the method of cleaning the cart 12 with a fluid may include one or more of the following steps. First, bucket 14 is placed on the ground or platform 87 of reservoir 99 . The bucket support 48 may be raised and the filter 18 mounted to the receptacle 16 of the tub 14 . The bucket support 48 is then lowered to secure the filter 18 .

The cart 12 is then moved towards the tub 14 in an initial direction with at least the front portion 36 of the cart 12 being received by the cutout 24 of the tub 14 and above the receptacle 16 . The trolley 12 is then moved in an oblique direction relative to the receptacle 16 so that the contents of the body 20 of the trolley 12 can be moved into the receptacle 16 at least in part by gravity. The bucket abuts a bucket support 48 which forms part of the support means 19 to hold the trolley 12 in an inclined orientation. Cart 12 is optionally maintained in a reclined orientation by tether 60 .

A cleaning fluid, such as water, is then applied to the bucket 20 of the cart 12 and flushes the substance or mixture containing solids and water into the receptacle 16 . At this point, the cart 12 can be removed or left in place to dry.

The solid matter is then substantially trapped in filter 18 and fluid enters hose 88 and/or fluid handling device 90 through outlet 82 . The fluid is then treated to adjust the pH to a level closer to that of water, ie to a pH of around 7. Once the fluid has passed through the filter 18 , the cart 12 can be removed (if not already done) and the bucket support 48 can be raised to release the filter 18 . The filter 18 can then be removed via the handle 80 and the filter and solid matter disposed of. It should be noted that multiple carts, equipment and tools can be washed using a single filter 18 . However, the filter can be replaced once it becomes soiled to the extent that filtration is impeded (eg clogged with cement).

Advantageously, the device allows cleaning of the cart and tools while capturing waste water and any solid matter such as cement. The filter can be removed to safely dispose of the captured material, and the remaining water can be collected for disposal.

Supports support the cart to free hands for cleaning, and integrated cutouts allow the cart to be tilted without lifting the entire cart. Tools can be supported by a cleaning tray above the bucket, which makes it possible to keep the waste water while cleaning the cart and tools.

second embodiment

Referring now to Figures 12 to 15, a second embodiment of an apparatus 110 is provided wherein like numeral sequences refer to like components (ie 10, 110, etc.). Many components of the second embodiment of the device 110 are similar to those of the first embodiment described above and will not be repeated here. Instead, key features and differences are highlighted.

A second embodiment of the apparatus 110, which is generally similar to the first embodiment, is now described in more detail. However, the tub 114 is provided in two parts including a lower tub portion 115 and an upper tub portion 117 fitted together in an assembled state.

The upper tub portion 117 includes a support 119, the front wall 122 of the support apparatus 119 has a cutout 124 shaped to support and hold the bucket 20 of the trolley 12, the bucket support 148 is integrally formed in the upper tub portion 117 opposite side wall 128. The bucket support 48 includes mutually opposing protrusions 152 that define a gap narrower than the width of the bucket 20 to provide a stop for the bucket in an inclined orientation.

Like the first embodiment, the protrusion 152 includes a rear largest protrusion 154 defining a narrow gap therebetween and a front smallest protrusion 156 defining a relatively narrow gap therebetween. big gaps. This allows the protrusion 152 to abut buckets 20 of different sizes. Apparatus 110 may also include a tether 60 to maintain the cart in an inclined orientation relative to the bucket support 48 .

The lower bucket portion 115 includes a floor 130 , opposing side walls 129 , opposing front and rear walls 131 , and a skirt 132 . The lower barrel portion 115 provides a generally rectangular receptacle 116 that defines an opening 134 in which the filter 118 is suitably received. Similar to the first embodiment, the inner surface 162 of the receptacle 116 is not flat or smooth and includes ridges 184 and grooves 186 to assist fluid movement through the filter 118 .

Of course, however, other surface features can also be applied, such as holes, reliefs or similar surface features. Located adjacent the rear wall of the floor 130 is an outlet 182 to which a hose 188 and/or a fluid handling device 190 may be mounted. The fluid processing device 190 has been described in the first embodiment, and will not be described here again.

In this embodiment, the filter 118 is rectangular in shape to fit the lower barrel portion 115 , the filter 118 includes a front wall 168 , a rear wall 170 , opposing side walls 172 and a floor 174 . A skirt 176 extends around the walls 168 , 170 , 172 . Skirt 176 is sized to extend over skirt 132 of lower bucket 115 .

Thus, in the assembled state, as shown in Figure 12, the skirt 176 can be secured between the upper barrel 117 and lower barrel 115, which helps to hold the filter 118 in place during use. The material of the filter 118 can be the same as that of the first embodiment, which will not be repeated here. The filter 118 may include a handle 80, as shown in FIG. 13, through which the filter 118 may be removed when the upper barrel portion 117 and the lower barrel portion 115 are disassembled. The second embodiment may also include a removable tray 196 which, in use, sits on top of the upper barrel portion 118 .

The method of use can also be similar to that of the first embodiment. However, of course, the filter 118 is installed in the lower tub 115 before the upper tub 117 is assembled to the lower tub 115 .

third embodiment

Referring now to Figures 16 to 20, a third embodiment of apparatus 210 is provided wherein like numeral sequences refer to like parts (ie 10, 210, etc.). Many components of the third embodiment of the device 210 are similar to those of the above-mentioned first embodiment and will not be repeated here. Instead, key features and differences are highlighted.

A third embodiment of the device 210 is now described in more detail, which is also substantially similar to the first embodiment. However, as shown in Figures 16 and 17, the barrel 214 is shaped to be movable from an initial generally horizontal position to an angled position.

In more detail, in this present implementation, the bucket 214 comprises a housing 216 having a lower part 215 that reaches in steps to an upper part 217 , with a step 219 between the lower part 215 and the upper part 217 . The steps 219 allow the bucket 14 to rest on the floor 230 of the lower section 215 or to be rotated into an angled position in which the bucket rests on the respective corners 221 , 223 of the lower section 215 and upper section 217 .

As shown in Figure 17, the function of the step 219 is to fill the bucket 14 with substance and solid matter within the substance to accumulate or settle more in the lower part 215 by gravity. In this inclined direction, the step 219 has a partition 227 between the lower part 215 and the upper part 217 in which the substance, ie the fluid with less solids, is present. This helps the filter 218 to function more efficiently because there is less solid matter in the upper portion to clog the filter 218 . Step 219 also provides a corner 229 into which hose 288 and/or fluid handling device 290 may be placed.

In this embodiment, bucket 214 includes two outlets 282a and 282b in lower portion 215 and upper portion 217, respectively. As shown in Fig. 17, the two outlets 282a and 282b are raised at an angled position to allow the discharge of any solid matter collected thereon.

The two outlets 282a and 282b are internally connected to the fluid handling device 290 by conduits 283a, 283b so that in the angled position fluid exits through paths A and B at the lowest points of the lower 215 , upper 217 portions of the housing 216 . Then the fluid treatment device 290 can be connected to the hose 288 in a manner similar to that of Embodiment 1, which will not be repeated here.

Filter 218 may be formed in a similar manner to that described in Embodiment 1 above. Of course, however, the shape of the filter 218 also includes a step 231 corresponding to the shape of the barrel 214 . Apparatus 210 includes cutouts 224 and bucket supports 248, which are similar to those described above in Embodiment 1, so a description of these components will not be repeated here.

In use, bucket 214 may initially be in an initial position in which front portion 36 of cart 12 is received by cutout 224 and supported by or rests on bucket support 48 . Tether 260 may be used to hold and secure cart 12 to bucket 214 . It should be noted that in this embodiment, the tie-down of the cart 12 can make the entire assembly self-supporting for easy cleaning.

Once the cart 12 is cleaned and the material, including solids and water, is within the receptacle 216 of the tub 214 . The cart 12 can be detached from the bucket 214, and the bucket 214 can be rotated into an angled position to allow drainage from the outlets 282a, 282b. Bucket 214 can be shaken as needed to aid in filtration and drainage. Filter 218 can be removed when soiled and replaced as needed.

Fourth embodiment

Referring to Figures 21 to 28, a fourth embodiment of a device 305 in the form of a stand 310 for cleaning a trolley 312 is shown. As shown in FIG. 28 , bracket 310 is used to support trolley 312 so that it can be raised in an inclined direction relative to support surface 314, so that the material or fluid in the bucket 316 of trolley 312 can be moved along at least in part by gravity. Movement in the direction from the bucket 316 to the support surface 314 .

The stand 310 may be provided as part of a system 320 further comprising a receiving portion 322 arranged relative to the support surface 314 such that in an elevated, inclined orientation, substances or fluids from the bucket 316 are directed towards the receiving portion 322 and are received by the receiving portion. 322 received.

Receptacle 322 may take any form in which a substance or fluid within bucket 316 may move in a direction from bucket 314 to receptacle 322 at least in part by gravity. Receptacle 314 may be any suitable device for collecting, catching, directing, or leaking fluid or matter, and may be a vessel, tub, container, pipe, funnel, drain, or other similar installation. Preferably, however, the receptacle 322 is a bucket or container 324 . The arrangement of support surfaces 314 may include more than one surface, such as a stepped surface, flat or sloped ground.

Now describing the stand 310 in more detail, the stand 310 includes a frame 326 having a first support 328 on which a first portion 330 of the trolley 312 can be supported and a second support 332 for A second portion 334 of the cart 312 raised above the first portion 330 is supported to at least temporarily maintain the cart 312 in an inclined orientation. Bracket 310 includes a first leg 342 toward a front or inlet end 343 of bracket 310 and a second leg 344 toward another end 345 of bracket 310 .

A first support 328 is configured to support wheel ends 336 of the cart 312 and a second support 332 is configured to support at least one of a bucket 316 and a handle 338 such that the cart 312 may be at least temporarily held in an inclined orientation.

In this embodiment, the first support 328 includes wheel stops 340 against which the cart can be rotated into a tilted orientation and engaged with the second support 332 . In more detail, the first support 328 is a generally horizontal portion of the frame 326 having two spaced apart longitudinal frame members 346 that are separated by first and second legs 342, 344. Elevated above the support surface 14 , first and second legs 342 , 344 are pivotally connected to each of two spaced apart longitudinal frame members 346 .

The wheel stops 340 may be provided as a pair of cross members 348 interconnected with rearwardly extending longitudinal frame members 346 . The first support 328 can take various forms, such as an open frame with cross members 328 as shown here, or the first support 328 can be or include a platform or other device to support the wheel ends 336 of the cart 312 .

The second support 332 may be provided in the form of a pair of arms 350 arranged to support the body 316 of the cart in an inclined orientation. A pair of arms 350 may be resiliently arched (eg, made of spring steel or the like) to resiliently support opposite sides of the bucket 316 . Arms 350 are flared and include outwardly bent ends 356 to aid in fitting bucket 316 between arms 350 .

The bracket 310 includes a ramp 352 that is guided and pivotally connected to the first support 328 and configured to allow the cart 312 to move upwardly from the ramp 352 to the first support 328 . In this embodiment, the first leg 342 and the second leg 344 and the ramp 352 are foldable to allow the stand 310 to be foldable between an unfolded state and a generally stowed state in which the cart 312 Can be supported in an inclined direction.

In this embodiment, a pair of arms 350 are each connected to a corresponding second leg 344 such that the pair of arms 350 and the second leg 344 are folded over each other simultaneously. The sloped surface 352 is wider than the first leg 342 and its bottom side may include a recess 354 to at least partially receive the first leg 342 in the stowed condition. The second leg 344 includes an aperture 347 through which a fastener 349 (such as a bolt or pin) can be fitted to a corresponding aperture 351 of the first support 328, thereby allowing the second leg 344 to be locked in proper deployment. state. Note that the first leg 342 is rotated over 90 degrees and abuts the first support 328 so as to be stabilized by the weight of the bracket 310 .

Referring now to the system 320 in detail, the system 320 is preferably configured such that the container 324 is positioned under the body 316 of the trolley 312 in an inclined orientation, as shown in FIG. 28 . The container 324 is mounted generally below two spaced apart longitudinal frame members 346 of the frame 326 with the second leg 344 positioned within the container 324 . Arm 350 may be positioned toward one end or the middle of container 324 such that when a washer fluid (i.e., water) is applied to the container, the fluid substance mixture within container 316 may move toward container 324 at least in part by gravity and into container 324.

In some embodiments, system 320 also includes a filter 360 mountable between bucket 316 and container 324 . Filter 360 is used to selectively capture solid material in the fluid material mixture, thereby separating such material from the cleaning fluid. Thus, the cleaning solution remains relatively clean and can be reused or disposed of as in Examples 1-3 above. The filter 360 can be fixed on the opening of the container 324 or can be hung on the frame 310 . Filter 360 may be a filter material such as geotextile, paper, hemp, etc. as described above.

In some embodiments, filter 360 may be removable or replaceable, such as a filter cartridge or unit that mounts to container 324 . The use of the filter 360 makes it possible to reuse water that has passed through the filter 360 . The next day, it can be bucketed back into the cement mixer, or pumped to another location with a small submersible pump. In some embodiments, container 324 may include a valve and tap that allows excess cleaning water to be drained to another location by gravity. This could simply be a plug hole for connecting a hose 100 mm above the bottom of the container 324 . In some embodiments, the height of the cart stand 310 can be adjustable so that it can be raised to fit containers 324 with taller sides.

A method of cleaning a cart using the system 320 described above will now be described, which generally includes the steps of raising the cart 312 using the ramp 352 and supporting its wheel ends 336 on the first support 328 . The wheel end 336 abuts against the wheel stopper 340, and then lifts the handle 338, pivoting the trolley to an inclined direction, at this moment, the bucket 316 is supported by the second support member 332, in this embodiment, the support arm 350 elastically The opposite sides of the bucket 316 are captured and supported. The trolley 312 is then supported in an inclined orientation with its bed 316 positioned above the container 324 . It should be noted that the stand 310 may first need to be transformed between the stowed state and the deployed state.

In some embodiments, filter 360 is generally configured such that a fluid substance mixture passes from bucket 16 into container 324 through filter 360; and a cleaning fluid, such as water, is applied to bucket 316 such that the The fluid substance mixture may move toward container 324 at least in part by gravity, wherein at least some solid substances carried by the fluid substance mixture are captured by filter 360 . The filter 360 can be a solid material filter which can then be discarded with the collected solids and the collected water can be reused.

Advantageously, embodiments of devices, related systems and methods of use have been described which allow for easy, convenient, safe and environmentally friendly cleaning of tools and equipment, in particular carts.

The provided embodiment makes it possible to collect waste water and any solid matter, such as cement, while cleaning the cart and tools. The filter can be removed to safely dispose of the collected material and the remaining water can be collected for disposal.

Supports hold the cart to free hands for cleaning, and integrated cutouts make it possible to tilt the cart without lifting the entire cart. Tools or other equipment can be supported by the cleaning tray above the bucket, which makes it possible to keep the waste water while cleaning the cart and tools.

The filter may be pre-shaped for ease of installation and may include a handle for easy removal and disposal of contained captured material. The inner surface of the barrel includes surface features to help the fluid (usually water) flow through the filter, and the fluid handling device assists in adjusting the pH of the filtered liquid so that the fluid, especially wastewater, can be disposed of on-site in a more environmentally friendly manner.

In one embodiment, the device may comprise a trolley stand which advantageously allows the trolley to be supported in an elevated inclined position for cleaning over the collection container. The stand is easy to fold and transport. The rack can be provided as part of a system comprising rack, collection container and filter. The system is set up so that the carts are typically cleaned on a collection container, the filter collects the solid matter, leaving a cleaning fluid, usually water, in the collection container, the cleaning fluid can be safely reused or disposed of, and the collected solid matter can thrown away.

In this specification and the following claims, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise" and variations such as "comprises" and "comprises" shall be understood to mean including the described integer or step or group of integers or group of steps, but not to the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.

The reference to any known matter or any prior publication in this specification is not, nor should it be considered as an acknowledgment or acceptance or implication that such known matter or prior art publication constitutes common general knowledge in the field covered by this specification part.

While particular embodiments of the invention have been described, it is to be understood that the invention extends to alternative combinations of features disclosed or apparent from this specification.

Various modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention as disclosed or would be apparent from the disclosure provided herein.

Claims (14)

1. A device for cleaning a trolley by means of a fluid, characterized in that the device comprises a tank and a filter,

the tub comprising a rear wall opposite a front wall, opposite side walls, a bottom panel and a skirt, the tub having a cutout in its front wall;

The cutout having opposed side portions spaced from the side walls, extending from the skirt to a middle portion, the middle portion being relatively lower than the skirt and spaced from the floor such that a front portion of the cart hopper can be moved over the cutout without lifting the cart wheel, the cutout being shaped to receive at least the front portion of the cart hopper to provide a support means,

the filter is mounted in the tub, the filter comprising a cutout on a front wall thereof corresponding to the cutout of the tub, a rear wall opposite the front wall, opposite side walls, a bottom plate and skirt wings for engagement with the skirt of the tub, wherein support means are provided for at least temporarily holding the trolley in an inclined orientation relative to the tub, enabling the substances in the hopper of the trolley to move into the tub at least partly by gravity.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the cutout is shaped to cradle a front portion of the cart hopper in an inclined orientation to provide a support means.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the cutout is shaped to engage an underside of a front portion of the cart hopper in an oblique orientation to provide underside support of the support means.

4. The device of claim 1, wherein the intermediate portion includes an intermediate lip extending along a top portion thereof.

5. The device of claim 1, wherein the intermediate portion is substantially horizontal and extends relatively outwardly from the front side of the barrel.

6. The device of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the opposing side portions:

i) Hopper shaped to hold trolleys in an inclined orientation, or

ii) shaped so that the incision narrows towards said intermediate portion, or

iii) Angled inwardly toward the intermediate portion, or

iv) includes a side lip against which the bucket of the cart rests in an inclined orientation, or

v) any combination of i) to iv) above.

7. The apparatus of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the barrel comprises an outlet, and an inner surface of the barrel is shaped to facilitate fluid flow through the filter to the outlet.

8. The device of claim 7, wherein the outlet is configured to fit with a fluid (fluid) handling device.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the fluid treatment device is configured to change the pH of the fluid passing therethrough.

10. The apparatus of any one of claims 1-4, further comprising a reservoir for collecting filtered fluid from the tank.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, comprising (1) a body capable of holding the drum and cart, the body having a platform capable of holding the drum and cart, and (2) a ramp leading to the platform.

12. The apparatus of any one of claims 1-4, wherein at least a portion of the interior surface of the barrel adjacent the filter is non-smooth to facilitate fluid flow through the filter.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein at least a portion of the interior surface of the barrel adjacent the filter includes a feature for assisting the passage of fluid through the filter, the feature selected from the group consisting of;

(1) The wave-form is formed by the wave-form,

(2) The protrusions are provided with a plurality of protrusions,

(3) The ridge is formed by a ridge,

(4) The holes are arranged in the holes and are used for the connection of the holes,

(5) Grooves, or any combination of (1) - (5) above.

14. A method of cleaning a cart with a fluid, the method comprising:

placing a tub on the ground, the tub comprising a rear wall opposite to the front wall, opposite side walls, a bottom plate and a skirt, the tub having a cutout in its front wall; the cutout having opposed side portions spaced apart from the side walls, extending from the skirt to a middle portion, the middle portion being relatively lower than the skirt and spaced apart from the floor, the cutout being shaped to receive at least a front portion of the cart hopper when the cart hopper is in an inclined orientation, thereby providing a support means;

Mounting a filter to the tub, the filter comprising a cutout on a front wall thereof substantially corresponding to the cutout of the tub, a rear wall opposite the front wall, opposite side walls, a bottom plate and a skirt;

moving the trolley towards the tub in an initial direction, wherein at least a front portion of the trolley is received by said cutout of the tub;

raising the cart to an inclined orientation relative to the tub such that the contents of the cart hopper can move at least partially by gravity into the tub;

holding the trolley in an inclined orientation by said support means;

applying a cleaning liquid on the hopper of the trolley;

capturing solid matter within the filter; and

Process filters and captured solid matter.

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